Nation

Tragic Loss: Dr. Lee Wei Ling, Daughter of Singapore's Founding Prime Minister, Passes Away at Age 69

2024-10-09

Author: Li

SINGAPORE — The nation mourns the passing of Dr. Lee Wei Ling, daughter of the legendary founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, who died at her family home on October 9, 2023, at the age of 69. Her death was confirmed by her brother, Lee Hsien Yang, who shared the news in a heartfelt Facebook post early Wednesday morning.

Dr. Lee's residence at 38 Oxley Road, the iconic family estate where her father lived until his death in 2015, was a testament to her deep-rooted connection to her family's legacy. She leaves behind her brother, current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who expressed his profound sorrow, stating, “I will deeply miss Ling. May she rest in peace.”

Known for her fierce loyalty and commitment to justice, Dr. Lee advocated for the underprivileged throughout her life. In 2003, during a charity event for troubled teenage girls, she proudly acknowledged her dedication to helping others and her understanding of hardship despite her affluent upbringing. Reflecting on her childhood, Dr. Lee even mentioned that managing resources was an integral part of her early education.

An outstanding scholar, she was recognized for her academic excellence from a young age, receiving a double promotion in her primary education and later earning the President's Scholarship. Dr. Lee served as the director of Singapore's National Neuroscience Institute, where she specialized in pediatric neurology and epilepsy, forming lasting bonds with her patients.

Her passion for animals initially led her to pursue veterinary medicine, but ultimately, she followed her parents' advice and embraced a career in medicine instead. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Lee was also a prolific writer, with her columns later compiled in her book, *A Hakka Woman's Singapore Stories: My Life as a Daughter, Doctor and Diehard Singaporean*.

Latest reports indicate that she battled progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a debilitating brain disease, which she handled with remarkable bravery and grace. As her health declined, Dr. Lee maintained her trademark fortitude, keeping the public informed about her condition and encouraging others to face their challenges with dignity.

Her brother's reminiscence of their father's wishes emphasizes the pressures and familial bonds within one of Singapore’s most notable families. Despite the complexities of their sibling relationship, Lee Hsien Loong ensured Dr. Lee's well-being remained a priority after their father's passing.

In another poignant tribute, Lee Hsien Yang recalled their father's advice to care for their family and emphasized his love and respect for Dr. Lee, closing with a touching nod to their shared heritage, “Ling, I am less stoic than you.”

Dr. Lee Wei Ling's legacy will continue to resonate through her contributions to medicine, her steadfast commitment to social justice, and the indelible impact she has left on those who knew her. Her remarkable journey and steadfast spirit will be remembered as a cherished part of Singapore's history.